Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project, the completion of the 3209 metres long Tunnel T-1, situated between Katra and Reasi Stations, signifies a significant achievement in the Himalayan region.
This tunnel is a crucial component of the Katra–Banihal section, marking the successful culmination of tunneling activities under the entire USBRL Project.
Constructed by the Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd. for Northern Railway as part of National Projects, Tunnel T-1 is nestled at the foothills of Trikuta Hills near Katra in Reasi District.
A Northern Railways Spokesman told Rising Kashmir that the tunnel’s alignment traverses the lesser Himalayas, presenting challenges with highly jointed and fractured dolomite.
Notably, a section spanning 300-350m intersects a major Shear Zone known as the Main Boundary Thrust (MBT), posing a formidable challenge due to water ingress.
He said initially employing conventional NATM (New Austrian Tunnelling Method) philosophy, the tunnelling approach was later switched to the I-System of Tunnelling.
“This transition involved innovative measures such as deep drainage pipes, umbrella pipe roofing, chemical grouting, face bolting, sequential excavation with multiple drifts, rigid support, and shotcreting. Overcoming the complexities of the visco-elastic plastic media of the MBT, today marked the successful completion of the excavation in the heading of Tunnel T-1,” he said.
The spokesman said this breakthrough is a pivotal stride towards realizing the dream of connecting the Kashmir valley with the rest of India. Despite the achievement, there remains approximately 318m of excavation in benching and 680m of concrete lining to be completed.
” The dedicated efforts are ongoing 24/7 to swiftly conclude the outstanding tasks, bringing the Katra–Banihal railway line closer to its commissioning and enhancing connectivity in the region,” he added.
